Culture vs. Religion

Forced marriages, honor killings, female genital mutilation, compulsory veiling, the confinement of women to their homes, or coercion in any form are all forbidden in Islam. These practices stem from deeply entrenched cultural customs, extremism, and/or ignorance of the true Islamic teachings or how to apply them in society. Arranged marriages are allowed in Islam but are not required. In fact, one of the conditions for a valid Islamic marriage contract is the mutual consent of both parties to the marriage. And divorce is permissible provided the Islamic guidelines are followed which protect the rights of all affected parties, especially women and unborn children.